Frequently Asked Questions

Why bother with the expense and time of a formal appraisal?
Many people are unaware of the values of the items that have been collected in their families over the years. Some pieces are antiques and can be valuable in the current market, although they were purchased many years ago, when they were of minimal value. Many pieces are handed down through families, and while they have sentimental value, they may or may not have much monetary value. Often, families want to equitably divide their possessions, and an Appraisal is the only way to be sure everyone is treated fairly.

What if no one in the family wants any of the furnishings or art?
There are several ways to liquidate household furnishings, art and antiques. These can include garage sales, estate sales, auction houses, private collectors and EBay. Knowing how and which method to dispose of all items in the best way is the job of the Appraiser. In most estates, a combination of buyers is desirable.

What if there is a truly valuable antique or piece of art?
This is the time when a professional Appraisal is most valuable, since the Appraiser is trained to recognize objects of value that are often overlooked by the owner. This is especially true in cases where families have accumulated pieces of antiques, furniture, and artwork over the years. When the Appraiser recognizes a valuable piece, he will contact his auction sources for the auction house that is most likely to be able to market the piece. Different auction houses specialize in different types of antiques and art, and the Appraiser does his best to represent his client for the optimum price to be realized for the antique or artwork.

How do you charge for an appraisal?
Appraisals are charged by the hour, including photographing and researching all items to be included in the appraisal. Many times, the Appraiser  will do a walk-through inspection, and point out the items worthy of an appraisal, and will make suggestions for the best way to deal with items of little monetary value.

What does an appraisal look like?
An official appraisal can include one or hundreds of items, depending on the type of appraisal needed, and the purpose of that appraisal. Those questions are discussed with the client at the initial meeting, and the type of appraisal is determined. Appraisals are used for insurance purposes, for probate purposes, and for equitable distribution to heirs. There are strict laws and guidelines concerning the correct identification and estimation of value for all tangible personal property, which must be considered. Each item in an appraisal is photographed, often with detailed photographs in addition to the large overall photograph, with dimensions and verbal description of the item. When an item is above a certain dollar amount, comparable's to that item with pictures are included to substantiate the value placed on the item. Most often, a Replacement Value for insurance purposes, or a Fair Market Value for estate purposes is assigned to the item in question. Which type of appraisal is determined prior to the beginning of the appraisal report. Each page of the report has two columns: one with a picture of the item in question, and one with the description, approximate age, dimensions, and material of fabrication/ finishes. If the value of the item warrants, a page of comparables are included. In the case of a large estate, an appraisal report may include hundreds of pages and pictures.

How do you send the appraisal to the client?
Legal offices and trust departments usually prefer a PDF format for the completed appraisal. Individual clients often want a hard copy with color photographs to use with family members in dividing the property. A single hard copy of the appraisal can be included when requested. If additional copies are needed, they can be furnished at a minimal charge.

Why choose Bass & Bass Antique Appraisers?
Bass & Bass has been an appraisal and interior design firm since 1972, working with fine quality new and antique furniture. Beginning with the interior design business, incorporating antiques and artwork, the natural evolvement from interior design to antique and fine art appraisals progressed naturally as a result of the clients’ needs for these services. Over the years, antique and new oriental rugs, antique and new original artwork, antique and new furniture, antique and new objects d’art all became part of the products furnished by Bass & Bass for its clientele. Law offices, trust departments,insurance companies, and individuals all began needing the services of a qualified, licensed antiques and fine art Appraiser.Robert L Bass is a member of The American Society of Appraisers, and has been a practicing professional appraiser since 1975. His work with the bank trust departments in North Florida, South Georgia and South Alabama has expanded over time, and is now covering territory all over the United States. His artwork appraisals have been used by the CIA, and his antique furniture and rug appraisals have been beneficial in helping his clients liquidate many of their hidden treasures. Signatures and personal properties of famous and infamous personalities have been identified and sold at auction through Mr. Bass’ expertise. Coin collections, which are often kept in safety deposit boxes, are difficult items for the average person to identify and liquidate. Mr. Bass has been doing identification of Coin Collections for the State of Florida since 1990, and is able to identify and value or dispose of coins when the client chooses.